[artwork]

Homer - I am detecting a slightly negative tone regarding integral fuel tanks (just a hint). Can I ask why?

My (1970) 58 has a pair and they tested fine, but had been setting for 15 years so they needed cleaning. We cut inspection ports and cleaned them out. The alum on the inside is like new. What else should we watch for?

[92GTA]

Ok, so reading more te hull design of the Roamers seems to be better at cutting through ocean waves compared to the Commander for example.

Also I'm still trying to get my head around all the different types of models. For example, the Constellation was available in Express, Sedan, Salon and Tri-Cabin models. WOW. It's crazy. I still can't find a breakdown of all the Roamer configurations from 1955-1977 though.

I've been using this as my CC bible so far as I've yet to find a more informed source, site is slow as balls though:

http://www.chris-craft.org/wiki/index.php/Main_Page

Now I've been reading stuff about how old wooden boats rot faster in the tropics from decay and worms, etc. Also that marinas don't like risk having big old wooden boats in their slips due to disposal costs if they are abandoned. They also cost much more to pull due to weight than aluminum. Skilled workman might also be a downside when it comes to big repairs. Plus because of this they are very difficult to insure properly. Is all this true?

I've been coveting the Salon versions of the Constellations made between 1965-1970 but am rethinking because of the cost of upkeep and the reasons above. I just feel like a Roamer is going to be the best all around choice from what I've learned as far as my purposes. It sucks because I really like the feel of a wooden boat and just everything about them. I feel like I won't be happy unless I go wood, personally, but that not going aluminum would be a mistake....

[gerconst]

Ceck out the chris craft antique boat website. They have all the old brochures and brassbell articles with a ton of information. If you pay for a one year prescription (30 to 40 bucks) you can view alot of the original brocures in the archive section. Also check out the commander club.

[q240z]

Originally Posted by artwork

Homer - I am detecting a slightly negative tone regarding integral fuel tanks (just a hint). Can I ask why?

ART!!!

I'd be interested in hearing why, too. There are a few engineering papers out there that are very supportive of integral tanks. In fact, I sometimes wish I had gone integral on mine. Increased hull rigidity, less space consumed in the interior...with a couple of clean-out ports, what's not to like?

92GTA, if you look closely at my avatar you'll see my 1967 tri-cabin 52' Connie. It's 6-71 powered and--like everything else out there--could be considered "on the market." Shoot me an email if you're serious.

"Now I've been reading stuff about how old wooden boats rot faster in the tropics from decay and worms, etc." Can't help you there. I've never kept a boat there.
Also that marinas don't like risk having big old wooden boats in their slips due to disposal costs if they are abandoned. I've had no problem on the Potomac or the Chesapeake, but then my boat's not a wreck.
They also cost much more to pull due to weight than aluminum. I have never heard of a yard charging by the pound to haul, only by the foot. I'm also not sure that wooden boats are heavier by much, if at all, than aluminum. My Connie runs just short of 20 tons.
Skilled workman might also be a downside when it comes to big repairs. Planks and ribs aren't a big mystery, and in many Carribean nations (Haiti is one I know for sure), boats are still being constructed out of wood.
Plus because of this they are very difficult to insure properly. Is all this true? I have no problem insuring my boat. I know of at least two carriers that happily insure them: Heritage and Hagerty.

[92GTA]

Thanks, I'll keep you in mind! Also thanks for clearing those things up for me!

Hagerty huh?! I use Grundy to insure my collector cars, I have dealt with Hagerty in the past on them too. Good to know!

I've already attempted to contact the seller to see about putchasing this little jewel:

http://www.boattrader.com/listing/19...ueror-96177095

It's on the west coast, I'm totally diggin the look and the interior, and seems to be in very decent condition, and the price, wow!

Crazy lol, I'm like all over the radar on these things! Just so many types out there!

EDIT: Oh man! I wish I could have grabbed this up! This is so SWEET! Totally worth shipping to CA!!! 1954 53' Conqueror

http://www.yachtforums.com/forums/mo...tor-yacht.html